Kia Sonet vs Mazda CX-3
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
Too close to call on resale: both keep about 67% of their value over three years. Decide on the deal, not the badge.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| Sonet | CX-3 | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 299 995 | R 440 000 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 5 243/m | R 7 690/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 83% | 82% |
| Retained after 3 years | 67% | 67% |
| Value after 3 years | R 201 908 | R 293 618 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 98 087 | R 146 382 |
| Value after 5 years | R 161 120 | R 233 185 |
| Our tier | Mainstream | Mainstream |
Kia Sonet →
Kia's Indian-built compact crossover has been a steady seller since 2021 and shares its platform with the Hyundai Venue. The unstressed 1.5 petrol keeps running costs low, and a panel van derivative targets small businesses. Consistent demand keeps used prices reasonably firm for the class.
Known for: practical compact crossover value
Mazda CX-3 →
A light crossover on Mazda2 underpinnings, the CX-3 has been on sale in South Africa since 2015 and is one of the brand's local volume models. Recent ranges are sold only with the 2.0 petrol and automatic gearbox. Steady demand and a long warranty help it hold value reasonably well for the segment.
Known for: polished light crossover, petrol auto only
Common questions
Which holds value better, the Kia Sonet or the Mazda CX-3?
They are close to inseparable: 67% vs 67% retained after three years. Buy on price, spec and the deal you can get, not on resale.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The Kia Sonet loses about R 98 087 over three years and the Mazda CX-3 loses about R 146 382. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the Kia Sonet runs about R 5 243 per month and the Mazda CX-3 about R 7 690, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.